RRRC welcomes appointment of new GBRMPA CEO

The Reef and Rainforest Research Centre welcomes the announcement of the new Chief Executive Officer of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA).

RRRC Managing Director Sheriden Morris said strong regional leadership for the Great Barrier Reef is crucial.

“This is a challenging time for the Great Barrier Reef as the Reef recovers from climate induced back-to-back mass coral bleaching in parts of the northern section of the Reef. Recent efforts to address threats such as Crown-of-Thorns Starfish outbreaks, declining water quality, fishing management and shipping risks, also need to continue and be enhanced into the future,” she said.

“The role of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority in managing this natural icon has never been more critical than it is today. There is enormous benefit in having the GBRMPA based in North Queensland. Local conditions and approaches can be better considered in making decisions about the management of the Reef.

This means Reef industries, the science community, Traditional Owners, local councils and interested stakeholders should grasp the opportunity to work closely with GBRMPA to help secure the future of the Reef.

“We are looking forward to working with GBRMPA’s new CEO in its important role in managing the future of the Great Barrier Reef.”